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John joined Rotary in August 1988 when the club was the Rotary Club of Port Phillip - Melbourne under the classification Banking-Insurance. During the next 25 years he held many roles in the club including President, Secretary, Club Service Director, Vice President, Horizons Committee Chair and Executive Secretary.
As club historian he wrote the club history entitled the first 13 years in 2000 which he updated to the first 20 years in 2007. John also served as Club archivist ensuring that all the Clubs memorabilia and historical documents were stored and are readily available for special functions.
John was a key contributor in the formation of the very successful Victoria Police Mentoring program and Secretary of the steering committee for a number of years he was also a key player in the start-up of club’s Community Village.
During his year as President he launched the successful Paul Harris Breakfast now in its 25th year and due to a very successful fundraising year the club was able to donate $30,000 to the establishment of the Rotary Bone Marrow Research Centre.
In addition to his active involvement in the club John also found time to serve at District as a District Governor Representative, Vocational Service Chair, District Resources Officer for ten years and was an integral part of the District Training team for many years.
John was a co-author of a number of District policies including the early District Protection Policies and the District 9800 Club Administration Guideline Manual. He also served on the District Resolutions committee for a number of years and was part of the team to produce a common Club Constitution and Bylaws.
During his term as Vocational Chair John led the very successful Australia-wide Employ Australian campaign which was successful in finding jobs for thousands of Australians.
John was a multiple Paul Harris Fellow Recognition recipient as well a recipient of the Four Avenue of Service Award. He was also awarded the RI Service Above Self Award for his contribution to the District and was the recipient of a number of other District awards.
In 2012 John was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in recognition of his community service.
He resigned his Active Membership from the club in 2013 on moving to the seaside and was made an Honorary Member.
This is only a brief summary of John’s life in Rotary, he did so much, was a mentor to so many and made a difference to lots of people in many different ways.
John loved to meet new people making them feel welcome and at ease. He enjoyed a glass of red, conversation, a good joke and was loved by all.
His wise counsel and desire to improve the lot of others through Rotary will be sadly missed. The club and the world will be a poorer place for John’s passing.
Rest in Peace.
A Memorial Service for our esteemed Honorary Member John Meehan will be held.
When: Friday 23 February 2018
Time: 10.00am
Location : Tobin Brothers, 604 Esplanade, Mount Martha.
John will be interred at Kew Cemetery on Thursday 22 February, a family only service.